Flights to Riyadh

Once an isolated mud-brick town along desert trading routes, Riyadh is now one of the wealthiest cities in the world. As flights to Riyadh come in, skyscrapers such as Al Faisaliah Tower can be seen rising up from the dusty desert while shiny 4x4s cruise the city’s highways in one of the Kingdom’s premier destinations for business tourism.

Saudi Arabia’s capital city is much more than a vibrant business destination, however. It’s a glittering oasis where Arab traditions meet western culture, and is packed with enough restaurants, hotels, history and culture to rival any other capital in the Gulf.

Centrally located in the middle of the country, Riyadh is the beating heart of Saudi Arabia. Take a short drive from the city centre in almost any direction, and you’ll see evidence of its unique Middle Eastern heritage, harking back to Bedouin life in the desert. Try the famous camel souk on Dammam Road, just east of the city, or journey by car to the ‘Edge of the World’ – the stunning Tuwaiq escarpment.

If you’re craving some relief from the heat, head to the Lake Kharrarah Park and Hifna Waterfall on the outskirts. This national park floods during rainfall, creating a lake deep enough to swim in, and it’s a popular picnic spot on hot afternoons.

Sport is incredibly popular in Riyadh and the city buzzes on match days as up to 70,000 football fans make their way to the King Fahd International Stadium. If shopping is more your thing, you’ll find streets lined with malls, many exclusively for women, offering the best in local and imported jewellery, clothing and food.

What to do in Riyadh

Visit Ushaiger Heritage Village

Ushaiger Heritage Village is located 180 kilometres northwest of Riyadh and is one of the oldest mud villages in the Middle East. Named after the nearby red mountain, it has two schools, a marketplace and many mosques, all surrounded by an oasis and ancient farmlands. The iconic mud buildings are a popular stopping point for pilgrims going for Hajj.

Off Route 50

Visit the Edge of the World

This is a hugely popular hike in Riyadh, and no wonder – the dramatic landscape of rugged, towering cliffs needs to be seen to be believed. You’ll need a 4X4 to make the journey, and be sure to pack plenty of food and water. It’s also best to go in a group.

Sho’ib Al Khumrah Road
Off Route 5762
15426

Tee off at Arizona Golf Resort

During the cooler months of winter and spring, there’s nothing quite like hitting the golf course to soak up some sunshine while keeping fit. Arizona Golf Resort has enough facilities to keep the whole family happy, including gorgeous outdoor pools, various sports courts and a petting zoo.

Qurtubah
13244
+966 1 248 4444

Where to eat in Riyadh

Set Al Sham (Middle Eastern)

A well-known restaurant in Riyadh, Set Al Sham is popular for its Syrian fountains and private rooms with Egyptian and Lebanese decor. Guests are served a Middle Eastern buffet featuring an assortment of local food. Don’t miss the desserts: umm ali, a nutty bread pudding, and the rose water rice pudding.

Prince Sultan Ibn Abdul Aziz
As Sulaymaniyah
12223
+966 11 293 0803

The Najd Village (Saudi Arabian)

Locals appreciate the authentic dishes and traditional atmosphere at the Najd Village, while tourists get a first-hand look at the role of food in Saudi culture. This restaurant harks back to a bygone era: dates hang to dry from the roof while men make chai and qahwa (coffee) over an open fire in a museum-like setting.

At Takhassusi Street
Al Olaya
12331
+966 11 464 6530

The Globe (International)

The Globe is Riyadh’s most exclusive restaurant, with an unrivalled scenic view. Perched atop Al Faisaliah Tower in a glassy orb, you’ll be served Arabic and modern European dishes with a French twist. Guests can also relax in the authentic cigar lounge 240 metres above ground.

Places to stay in Riyadh

The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh

From its ornate facade to its impeccably maintained rooms, you know you can expect a certain level of luxury from the Ritz-Carlton name. There are nearly 500 rooms and suites to choose from, and the facilities include a gentleman’s spa, heated indoor swimming pool and an exclusive club lounge.

Jeddah Road
Al Hada
+966 11 802 8020

Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh

The five-star Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh is not only one of the best luxury hotels in the city, it’s also housed in the impressive Kingdom Tower, an iconic skyscraper in Saudi Arabia and an attraction in itself. The hotel boasts an outdoor pool, a luxury spa and a women-only floor.

Kingdom Centre
Al Urubah Road
12214
+966 11 211 5000

Al Waha Palace Hotel

Al Waha Palace Hotel is often heralded as one of the best hotels in Riyadh. Encircled by shopping malls, government offices and ministries, it is the ultimate accommodation for business and leisure visitors to the Saudi capital. Each of the 73 suites is finished to a luxury standard, and complemented by the exclusive VIP floor, fitness centre and swimming pool.

6 Wadi Aldawasir Street
Al Olaya
11635
+966 11 461 2288

Find cars

The minimum age for a driver is 21. Please check the terms and conditions of your car hire for extra charges for drivers under the age of 30.

Most popular destinations from Riyadh (RUH)

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